Looking ahead to 2026 at Samish Island Campground

By Chris Phelps, SICA Board President

​Hello and Happy New Year from the Samish Island Campground Association,

I am pleased to introduce Brad Martell as the new Samish Island Campground and Retreat Center Campground Director, effective January 2026. Brad will be doing some part-time virtual work throughout December to get oriented to the campground staff and needs, and will begin working full-time on January 1. He and his wife, Lori, will be moving into the residence at Samish in mid-January. We look forward to welcoming Brad into his new role and supporting him in any way we can.

Brad A. Martell, PhD, has served as the Inland West Mission Center President and Peace and Justice Director for Community of Christ. He was co-director of the Community of Christ Peace Colloquy and International Peace Award, and also served as adjunct faculty with the Community of Christ Seminary, Graceland University. Brad is an environmental educator and a justice and peace activist. He enjoys creative writing, music, natural history, camping, bird-watching, gardening, and cooking with his spouse, Lori.

I would also like to take a moment to thank Christine Campbell and her family — Dwayne, Owen, and Ian — for their dedication to SICRC as Christine’s role as Campground Manager comes to an end. Their willingness to step up during a time of significant transition at the campground has been extraordinary. Christine took on this role during a period of considerable flux, and with the support of her family, worked tirelessly from the end of the COVID shutdown through the end of 2025 to ensure that SICRC remained open and welcoming to thousands of users.

In the short term, Jeri Mortimore will continue to be your point of contact for all matters related to scheduling, contracts, and upcoming events in 2026. Over the next couple of months, Jeri will transition these responsibilities to Brad to help ensure a seamless experience as you plan and host events at the campground. Please continue to communicate with Jeri as you have over the past eighteen months, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.

Speaking on behalf of the board, we are deeply grateful for all that you bring to the Samish Island Campground experience. You are the reason SICRC is the sacred place it is.

SEE UPCOMING EVENTS AT SAMISH ISLAND